Okay, friends, gather ’round because I’m about to share something truly special. What are Cranberry Bliss Bars? I swear, the first time I tasted one, it transported me back to cozy afternoons spent decorating the house. Christmas tree with my grandma. What are the tangy cranberries and the creamy frosting? If you love lemon bars, you are going to love these. What’s a festive twist to these cookies? How do you make your own Starbucks Cranberry Bliss Bar recipe at Home? Is it cheaper to hit up a coffee shop every time the craving hits?
What is Starbucks Cranberry Bliss Bar recipe?
What are these little squares of heaven? Think of them as a delightful cross between blondie and cranberry loaf, all dressed up with some whipped cream. Sweet Cream Cheese Frosting. What’s a moist, chewy bar studded with dried cranberries and hints of orange zest? With a luscious, tangy frosting. What is the magic of white chocolate? It’s like a tiny burst of sweetness that perfectly complements the tartness of cranberries. What are bliss bars? Is it a textural and flavorful party in your mouth?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Let me count the ways! First and foremost, the *flavor* is just out of this world. The combination of tart cranberries, zesty orange, and sweet cream cheese frosting is a match made in heaven. It’s the perfect balance of sweet and tangy, with a hint of warmth from the spices. Second, it’s surprisingly *simple* to Make. Don’t be intimidated by the fancy name or the Starbucks connection! The recipe is straightforward, and even if you’re not a seasoned baker, you can totally nail this. Third, let’s talk *cost-efficiency*. Buying these bars at Starbucks can get expensive, especially if you have a family to feed. Making them at home is a fraction of the cost, and you can make a big batch to share (or not!). Finally, the *versatility* is a huge plus. They’re perfect for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or just a cozy night in with a cup of coffee. What I love most about this Starbucks Cranberry Bliss Bars Recipe is that it’s a crowd-pleaser. Everyone who tries them always raves about how delicious they are. And that, my friends, is the ultimate reward for a home baker!
How do you make Starbucks Cranberry Bliss Bars?
Quick Overview
What is the easiest way to make bliss bars? We’re basically creating a moist and flavorful bar base, then layering on an tangy frosting, and topping it off with Whipped Cream. What’s not to love about white chocolate drizzle? What is the best way to cook a bar? We want them to be nice and chewy, not dry and crumbly. What is the best part about this method? Feel free to add your own personal touch. I promise, you’ll be surprised at how simple and satisfying it is to create these Starbucks cups. How do I make Cranberry Bliss Bars?
Ingredients
For the Main Batter: What are some examples?
* 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: I always use unbleached for the best flavor.
* 1 teaspoon baking powder: Make sure it’s fresh, or your bars won’t rise properly.
* ½ teaspoon baking soda: This gives the bars a nice, light texture.
* ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness. Don’t skip it!
* ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened: Let it sit out at room temperature for at least an hour before starting.
* ¾ cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with browning.
* ¼ cup packed light brown sugar: Adds moisture and a caramel-like flavor.
* 2 large eggs: Use room temperature eggs for better emulsification.
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a warm, comforting flavor.
* ½ cup Sour Cream: Makes the bars extra moist and tangy.
* 1 teaspoon orange zest: This is key to getting that signature Starbucks flavor. Don’t skimp!
* 1 cup dried cranberries: I prefer to use sweetened dried cranberries, but unsweetened works too. Just add a little extra sugar to the batter if you use unsweetened.
For the Filling:
* 4 oz white chocolate, chopped: Use good quality white for the best flavor. Is Ghirardelli a good choice for white chocolate?
For the Glaze:
* 4 oz cream cheese, softened: Again, let it sit out at room temperature for at least an hour. * 12 cup unsalted butter, softened: Softened is key! * 2 cups powdered sugar: * 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract: 1 tablespoon sifted before using. A little extra vanilla never hurts. * 2 tablespoons orange juice: 1 cup. Adds a citrusy flavor to the frosting.
How do I follow step
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating up, grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. I like to use a baking spray that contains flour, it’s a lifesaver! Make sure to get into all the corners, so the bars don’t stick. This step is crucial for easy removal later. Set the pan aside for now.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside. Whisking is important because it evenly distributes the ingredients, preventing clumps and ensuring a smooth finish. How do I get a consistent texture in my bars? This step also aerates the flour, which helps to create more tender crumb. Don’t skip this step!
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light. Set aside. What is the best way to do this with an electric mixer? Then, beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl occasionally to ensure that everything is evenly distributed. Add the orange zest and Sour Cream to the mixture and stir to combine. The mixture should be smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Combine
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, which can result in tough, dry bars. The batter should be thick and slightly lumpy. Gently fold in the dried cranberries. I always make sure the cranberries are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 5: Prepare Filling
Place the chopped white chocolate and heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until the white chocolate is melted. Do not overheat white chocolate, or it will seize up. Is it possible to melt the white chocolate in a double boiler over simmering water? Stir until smooth.
Step 6: Layer & Swirl
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Then, drizzle the melted white chocolate over the batter. Use a knife or skewer to swirl the white chocolate into the batter. Be creative with your swirls! You can create a marbled effect or just randomly swirl the white chocolate throughout the batter. I like to make sure the white chocolate is visible on the surface of the bars.
Step 7: Bake
Is it safe to bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes? Comes out clean. The edges of the bars should be golden brown. Be careful not to overbake! Overbaked bars will be dry and crumbly. Start checking for doneness around 25 minutes and adjust the baking time as needed. Every oven is different!
Step 8: Cool & Glaze
Let the bars cool completely in the pan before frosting. Why does the frosting melt if the bars are still warm? While the bars are cooling, prepare the frosting. In a large bowl, cream together the Cream Cheese and butter until light and fluffy. Set aside. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until smooth. Then, beat in the vanilla extract and orange juice. The frosting should be thick and creamy. Once the bars are completely cool, spread the frosting evenly over the top.
Step 9: Slice & Serve
Cut the bars into squares and serve. I like to use a sharp knife to get clean cuts. You can also dust the bars with powdered sugar or sprinkle them with extra dried cranberries for a festive touch. These bars are best served at room temperature. Enjoy!
What should I serve it with?
What are some of the best Starbucks Cranberry Bliss Bar Recipes?For Breakfast:Pair a bar with coffee or latte. The sweetness of the bar perfectly complements the bitterness of coffee. I love serving them on a pretty plate alongside fruit salad for an extra special morning treat.For Brunch:What are some of the best brunch bars? What are some of the best appetizers to serve on a platter? Serve with a mimosa or bellinis for scrumptious brunch.As Dessert:What are some of the best after-dinner treats? Serve with a scoop of vanilla Ice Cream or whipped cream. What are some good side dishes to serve with a glass of wine or herbal tea?For Cozy Snacks:Snuggle up on the couch with a warm blanket and bar. They’re the ultimate comfort food! What are some of the best ways to enjoy hot chocolate with apple cider? My family tradition? We always have these on hand during movie nights in December!
How do I make cranberry bliss bars?
How do you make a Starbucks Cranberry Bliss Bar recipe? What are some of the Best Tips I’ve learned over the years?Mixing Advice: Be careful not to overmix the batter. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, which can result in tough, dry bars. Mix until just combined, then gently fold in the cranberries.
Ingredient Swaps:If you don’t have sour cream, you can substitute plain Greek yogurt. It will give the bars a similar tang and moisture. Can you use dried fruit, such as cherries or blueberries, in place of dried fruits? Just make sure to adjust the sweetness accordingly.Baking Tips:To prevent the edges of the bars from browning too quickly, you can tent the pan with foil during baking. Is it necessary to bake for 10 minutes? How do you bake a bar? I also rotate the pan halfway through baking for even browning.Glaze Variations: For a different flavor, try adding a teaspoon of lemon zest to the frosting. This will give it a bright, citrusy flavor that pairs perfectly with the cranberries. You can also add a splash of orange liqueur to the frosting for an extra boozy kick.
Zucchini Prep: Ensure all ingredients are used fresh and high quality.
Swirl Customization Experiment with your swirl pattern! The more varied, the better they look.
What are the Storing and Reheating Tips?
These Starbucks Cranberry Bliss Bars Recipe are best enjoyed fresh, but they can also be stored for later.
Room Temperature: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep them fresh, I like to line the container with a paper towel to absorb any moisture.
Refrigerator Storage: Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. The frosting may harden slightly in the refrigerator, so let the bars sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the bars. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months. To thaw, transfer the bars to the refrigerator overnight or let them sit at room temperature for a few hours.
Glaze Timing Advice: If you’re planning on freezing the bars, I recommend frosting them after they’ve been thawed. This will prevent the frosting from becoming soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it! My go-to Starbucks Cranberry Bliss Bars Recipe. It’s a recipe that’s near and dear to my heart, and I hope it becomes a favorite in your family too. It’s truly worth trying because it’s way easier than you think, tastes incredible, and saves you a ton of money compared to buying them at Starbucks. If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out my other holiday treats, like my gingerbread cookies and peppermint bark. Happy baking, friends! Can’t wait to hear how yours turn out! Share your pictures and variations in the comments below, and don’t forget to rate this recipe if you loved it!
How to Make 7 Dreamy Starbucks Cranberry Bliss Bars at Home
Ingredients
Blondie Base
- 0.5 cup Unsalted Butter melted
- 1 cup Brown Sugar packed
- 1 large Egg
- 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
- 1.5 cups All-Purpose Flour
- 0.5 tsp Baking Powder
- 0.25 tsp Salt
Cream Cheese Frosting
- 4 oz Cream Cheese softened
- 0.25 cup Unsalted Butter softened
- 2 cups Powdered Sugar
- 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
- 1 tbsp Milk
Toppings
- 0.5 cup Dried Cranberries
- 0.25 cup White Chocolate Chips melted
Instructions
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8x8 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, combine melted butter and brown sugar. Beat until smooth. Add egg and vanilla extract; mix well.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs.
- Let the blondie cool completely in the pan before frosting.
- For the frosting: In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until light and fluffy. Add vanilla extract and milk; mix well.
- Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled blondie. Sprinkle with dried cranberries and drizzle with melted white chocolate.
- Cut into bars and serve. Store in the refrigerator.
